Jon Roberts

Jon Roberts (1948-2011) was an American drug trafficker and author known for his memoir "American Desperado," co-written with journalist Evan Wright. During the 1980s, Roberts was one of the most prolific cocaine smugglers working with Colombia's Medellín Cartel, helping transport billions of dollars worth of cocaine into the United States. Before his criminal career, Roberts served in Vietnam and later became involved with New York's Gambino crime family. His operations in Miami during the height of the cocaine trade were notable for their sophistication, utilizing private aircraft and specialized transportation networks. After his arrest in 1992, Roberts cooperated with law enforcement and served a reduced prison sentence. His story was featured in the documentary "Cocaine Cowboys" (2006), which detailed the violent drug trade in Miami during the 1970s and 1980s. Following his release from prison, Roberts collaborated on "American Desperado," published in 2011 shortly before his death from cancer. The book provides a detailed account of his life in organized crime and his role in the international drug trade.

Readers find Roberts' memoir "American Desperado" gripping for its raw, unflinching account of his criminal life. Reviews highlight the book's brutal honesty and detailed insights into drug trafficking operations. Liked: - Direct, matter-of-fact storytelling style - Detailed descriptions of criminal operations and procedures - Co-author Wright's fact-checking and additional research - Historical context of Miami's drug trade era Disliked: - Graphic violence and disturbing content - Roberts' lack of remorse or moral reflection - Some readers question the truthfulness of certain claims Ratings: - Goodreads: 4.2/5 (12,000+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.6/5 (1,500+ reviews) One reader noted: "The most honest and unapologetic true crime book I've read." Another commented: "Well-researched but morally troubling - Roberts seems proud of his criminal past." The book's unvarnished portrayal of criminal life draws both praise for authenticity and criticism for glorifying violence and illegal activities.

American Desperado (2011) - A memoir co-written with Evan Wright detailing Roberts' life from his experiences in Vietnam through his years as a major cocaine smuggler for the Medellín Cartel and his subsequent cooperation with law enforcement.

Howard Marks operated one of the largest marijuana smuggling operations in history and wrote "Mr Nice," detailing his criminal career and eventual capture. His writing style and first-hand accounts of international drug trafficking parallel Roberts' direct narrative approach.

George Jung was another major cocaine trafficker who worked with the Medellín Cartel and wrote about his experiences in "Blow." His memoir covers similar territory to Roberts', including the rise and fall of his drug empire and his relationships with Colombian cartels.

Frank Lucas wrote "Original Gangster," chronicling his career as a Harlem drug kingpin during the Vietnam era. His book explores themes of crime, power, and redemption that align with Roberts' experiences.

David Sheff wrote "King of White: A Drug Lord, A Prison Break, and The Hunt for Britain's Biggest Drug Baron," about Curtis Warren's criminal empire. The book covers similar themes of international drug trafficking and law enforcement pursuit.

William Burroughs wrote "Junky," providing an insider's perspective on drug culture and trafficking in mid-20th century America. His raw, autobiographical account of the drug underground shares elements with Roberts' unflinching examination of the narcotics trade.